British Fulldogs! Over HALF of dogs in the UK are now overweight, experts warn

By SHIVALI BEST, SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY EDITOR

Published: | Updated:

Over half of British dogs are now overweight or obese, a shocking new survey has revealed. 

The survey of 2,000 pet owners, by experts at Bella+Duke, found that 48 per cent of pooches are overweight, while a further six per cent are obese. 

Despite these worrying stats, the survey also found that a third (33 per cent) have no idea how much their dog should actually weigh. 

And more than 40 per cent even go so far as to feed their pet off their own plate. 

'It's amazing to see how many owners are genuinely worried about their pet's weight yet often don't realise that everyday feeding habits have a huge impact on their wellbeing,' said Dr Brendan Clarke, Chief Veterinary Advisor at Bella+Duke.

'From sharing of leftovers to feeding pet foods that can contain excess carb calories, it's easy for weight gain to creep in. 

'Paying closer attention to ingredients and choosing fresher, nutrient dense and protein rich diets, alongside cutting back on leftovers, can make a real difference to a pet's long term health.'

If your pet has piled on the pounds, don't panic – Dr Clarke has shared five simple tips to support your dog's health. 

Over half of British dogs are now overweight or obese, a shocking new survey has revealed (stock image)

Over half of British dogs are now overweight or obese, a shocking new survey has revealed (stock image)

While being overweight is linked to several health problems and a reduced lifespan, vets now estimate that around half of UK dogs are overweight.

There are several reasons your dog might be putting on weight. 

This includes eating too much food, not getting enough exercise, taking certain medications, and other medical reasons. 

Depending on the reasons for your dog's extra pounds, Dr Clarke says there are several things you can do to support their health.      

1. Understand what 'normal' is for them

Depending on the size and breed of your dog, their 'normal' might look very different to another pup's.  

'Know how much your pet should weigh and discuss this with your vet if you aren’t sure,' Dr Clarke advised.

'Get hands–on with your health checks: you should be able to feel your pet's ribs without pressing hard and see a visible waistline. 

While being overweight is linked to several health problems and a reduced lifespan, vets now estimate that around half of UK dogs are overweight (stock image)

While being overweight is linked to several health problems and a reduced lifespan, vets now estimate that around half of UK dogs are overweight (stock image) 

How to check if your dog is overweight

  1. Gently feel the base of their tail. There shouldn't be a build–up of fat.
  2. Look at them from the side and from above. You should be able to see a waist.
  3. Feel under their tummy. It should go in, not bulge out.
  4. Run your hands along their back. You should be able to feel (but not see) their spine and hip bones under the skin.
  5. Run your hands along their sides. Their skin should move freely over their ribs, which you should be able to feel with a light touch. 
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'If they are looking a little round, 2026 is the year to adjust their activity levels and look at a feeding plan that prioritises lean protein over starchy fillers.'

2. Check their teeth

Your dog might not be eating properly if their oral hygiene is compromised. 

Dr Clarke advised: 'Gnawing on appropriate items, like raw meaty bones, provides a "hassle factor" that naturally helps clean teeth and gums while providing excellent mental enrichment. 

'Choosing the right diet will also help with this, avoiding foods that have excess carbohydrates and opting for nutrient dense, protein rich meals.'

3. Tailor their fitness routine

While pilates might be great for one person, it's an idea of hell for another – and the same is true for exercise in dogs.  

'Focus on activities that suit your pet’s specific age, breed, and size. While dogs might need daily walks or fetch sessions to maintain muscle and joint health, cats can thrive with climbing posts and interactive laser games,' Dr Clarke advised. 

4. Book a health MOT

Rather than waiting for your dog to be unwell, Dr Clarke suggests booking a preemptive health MOT.  

'Annual check–ups help catch potential issues early, which often leads to simpler treatment and better outcomes,' he said.

5. Give your dog extra help as they age

From their home environment to their exercise routine, dogs' needs change as they age.

Dr Clarke said: 'Keeping them moving with gentle, low–impact exercise and scheduling more frequent health checks can help them maintain their vitality and age gracefully. 

'Providing a diet that supports joint health and includes the right balance of omega 3s for cognitive function helps them stay healthy as they grow older.'

WHAT ARE THE TEN COMMONLY HELD MYTHS ABOUT DOGS?

It is easy to believe that dogs like what we like, but this is not always strictly true. 

Here are ten things which people should remember when trying to understand their pets, according to animal behaviour experts Dr Melissa Starling and Dr Paul McGreevy, from the University of Sydney.

1. Dogs don't like to share 

2. Not all dogs like to be hugged or patted 

3. A barking dog is not always an aggressive dog 

4. Dogs do not like other dogs entering their territory/home

5. Dogs like to be active and don't need as much relaxation time as humans 

6. Not all dogs are overly friendly, some are shyer to begin with  

7. A dog that appears friendly can soon become aggressive 

8. Dogs need open space and new areas to explore. Playing in the garden won't always suffice 

9. Sometimes a dog isn't misbehaving, it simply does not understand what to do or what you want 

10. Subtle facial signals often preempt barking or snapping when a dog is unhappy

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